breaking: Canadiens Reacquire phillip Danault From Kings
Montreal, Canada – the Montreal Canadiens pulled off a late-night trade, bringing back Phillip Danault from the Los Angeles Kings in exchange for a 2026 second-round pick that had been previously sent to columbus. This marks a return for Danault, who wore the Habs colors from 2016 through 2021.
The 32-year-old center arrives as Montreal seeks a steadier two-way game, especially on the penalty kill and in the faceoff circle. Through 30 games this season, Danault has managed five assists and has yet toPotently find the back of the net. He remains a trusted defensive option, winning 54.7% of his faceoffs at even strength and carrying a plus-3 differential.
Danault’s playoff résumé with Montreal is highlighted by a trip to the 2021 Stanley Cup Final, where he tallied four points, including a goal, in 22 postseason appearances. His best year in Montreal came in 2018-19, when he posted 53 points in 81 games.
With Los Angeles, he produced his most prolific season to date, recording 54 points (18 goals) in 2022-23, and 27 goals in 79 games the season prior.In last year’s playoffs, he contributed eight points in six games before the Kings were eliminated in six games by Edmonton.
Danault was drafted 26th overall by the Chicago Blackhawks in 2011. Over his NHL career, he has tallied 399 points, including 125 goals, in 741 games. Montreal acquired Danault and a 2018 second-round pick in a trade that sent Dale Weise and Tomas Fleischmann to Chicago on February 26,2016.
In the summer of 2021, Danault signed a six-year contract worth $33 million with the kings, a pact averaging $5.5 million annually and set to expire after the 2026-27 season. This transaction marks the Canadiens’ second Quebec-born addition in two years ahead of the holiday roster freeze. Earlier, on December 18, 2024, Montreal acquired defenseman Alexandre Carrier from Nashville in exchange for Justin Barron.
| Key Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Player | Phillip Danault |
| Position | Center |
| Age | 32 |
| From | los Angeles Kings |
| To | Montreal Canadiens |
| Trade Details | 2026 second-round pick (previously from Columbus) |
| Contract (Kings) | Six years, $33 million; $5.5 million per season; expires 2026-27 |
| Notable Montreal Stint | 2016-2021 |
| Best Montreal Season | 53 points in 81 games (2018-19) |
| Best LA Season | 54 points (18 goals) in 2022-23 |
Impact and evergreen context
the move underscores Montreal’s ongoing strategy of adding seasoned, Quebec-born players as it positions for the stretch run. Danault brings a proven defensive game and faceoff presence, elements head coach and management have prioritized in recent seasons. His return also renews a familiar leadership thread within a roster that values internal ties to the province’s hockey landscape.
Beyond Danault,Montreal’s front office has signaled a willingness to act in the holiday window,having already secured a fellow Quebec native in Alexandre Carrier earlier in December 2024. The club’s approach this season leans into depth and versatility, aiming to balance offense with reliable defensive play as the standings tighten.
For fans drawing on history, Danault’s homecoming mirrors a broader trend of players who thrive in Montreal’s rink-and-rush style when given a second chance with the franchise. With his hockey IQ and veteran experience, he figures to contribute on the penalty kill, stabilizing line combinations, and providing a trusted option in tight games.
Two reader questions to ponder: How will Danault’s return alter Montreal’s playoff outlook? Which areas should the team target next to strengthen depth, especially down the middle and on the wing?
Share your thoughts in the comments and stay tuned for more updates as the Canadiens navigate the festive-season roster moves.
Engage with us: what is your take on Montreal’s latest assembly of veterans? Which move would you like to see next as the schedule tightens?
For more context on Danault’s career and the Canadiens’ recent moves, you can explore player profiles and league commentary from reputable outlets like the NHL’s official site and major sports networks.
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